Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for implementing a convergence system of a plurality of radio access networks (RANs), comprising: establishing, by an anchor RAN, a first connection with a terminal; selecting, by the anchor RAN, an auxiliary RAN; determining, by the anchor RAN, a quality of service (QoS) parameter for the auxiliary RAN according to a QoS parameter allocated by a core network; sending, by the anchor RAN, the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN to the auxiliary RAN for establishing, according to the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN, a second connection between the auxiliary RAN and the terminal; keeping, by the anchor RAN, the first connection with the terminal; receiving, by the anchor RAN, from the terminal, an establishment response message of the second connection; and sending, by the anchor RAN, the response message to the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to a system for integrating multiple radio access networks (RANs) to improve communication reliability and efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for seamless connectivity across different RANs while maintaining consistent quality of service (QoS) for a terminal device. The solution involves an anchor RAN that manages connections between a terminal and one or more auxiliary RANs. The anchor RAN first establishes a primary connection with the terminal. It then selects an auxiliary RAN to assist in communication. The anchor RAN determines a QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN based on the QoS settings provided by the core network. This parameter is sent to the auxiliary RAN, which uses it to establish a secondary connection with the terminal. The anchor RAN maintains the primary connection while the auxiliary RAN sets up the secondary link. Once the secondary connection is established, the terminal sends a confirmation message to the anchor RAN, which forwards this message to the auxiliary RAN. This approach ensures that the terminal remains connected to both RANs, allowing for load balancing, redundancy, or enhanced coverage without disrupting ongoing communications. The system dynamically allocates resources and maintains QoS consistency across the integrated RANs.
2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the anchor RAN, one or more third data packets from the terminal and one or more fourth data packets from the auxiliary RAN after the one or more fourth data packets have been transmitted by the terminal to the auxiliary RAN; combining, by the anchor RAN, the one or more third data packets and the one or more fourth data packets to obtain one or more combined data packets; and transmitting, by the anchor RAN, the one or more combined data packets to the core network.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for improving data transmission efficiency in scenarios involving multiple radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of managing data flows when a terminal communicates with both an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN, particularly when the auxiliary RAN forwards data to the anchor RAN for transmission to the core network. The method involves an anchor RAN receiving data packets from both the terminal and the auxiliary RAN. The terminal transmits data packets directly to the anchor RAN and also to the auxiliary RAN, which then forwards those packets to the anchor RAN. The anchor RAN combines the data packets received directly from the terminal with those forwarded by the auxiliary RAN to form combined data packets. These combined packets are then transmitted to the core network. This approach ensures that all data is properly aggregated and forwarded efficiently, reducing redundancy and improving overall data transmission performance in multi-RAN environments. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where a terminal communicates with multiple RANs simultaneously, such as in heterogeneous networks or during handover procedures.
3. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: transmitting and receiving, by the anchor RAN, a fifth one or more data packets to and from the terminal, respectively, through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity of the anchor RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN; and transmitting and receiving, by the auxiliary RAN, a sixth one or more data packets to and from the terminal, respectively, through a PDCP entity of the auxiliary RAN, through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing data transmission between a terminal and multiple radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed involves efficiently coordinating data exchange between a terminal and both an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN to improve reliability and throughput. The method involves transmitting and receiving data packets between a terminal and an anchor RAN through multiple protocol layers. The anchor RAN processes data using its packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, followed by radio link control (RLC) layer subblock, media access control (MAC) layer subblock, and physical (PHY) layer subblock. Similarly, the auxiliary RAN independently transmits and receives data packets to and from the terminal through its own PDCP entity, RLC layer subblock, MAC layer subblock, and PHY layer subblock. This dual-path communication allows the terminal to simultaneously exchange data with both RANs, enhancing redundancy and performance. The method ensures seamless integration of protocol layers across both RANs, enabling efficient data handling and improved network reliability.
4. The method according to claim 1 , before selecting the auxiliary RAN, the method further comprises: receiving, by the anchor RAN, a radio access bearer establishment request from the core network, wherein the radio access bearer establishment request carries the QoS parameter allocated by the core network.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting an auxiliary radio access network (RAN) to support a user equipment (UE) in a multi-RAN environment. The problem addressed is efficiently managing network resources and quality of service (QoS) when a UE requires additional RAN support beyond what a single anchor RAN can provide. The method involves an anchor RAN receiving a radio access bearer (RAB) establishment request from the core network, which includes QoS parameters allocated by the core network. These parameters define the required performance metrics, such as bandwidth, latency, and reliability, for the communication session. Before selecting an auxiliary RAN to assist the UE, the anchor RAN evaluates these QoS parameters to determine the most suitable auxiliary RAN that can meet the specified requirements. The selection process ensures that the auxiliary RAN has the necessary resources and capabilities to support the UE's communication needs while maintaining the desired QoS. This approach optimizes network resource utilization and enhances service quality for the UE.
5. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: sending, by the anchor RAN, at least one of an encrypted parameter, radio access capability information of the terminal in the auxiliary RAN, or an already assigned radio link control layer parameter to the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing radio access network (RAN) interactions between an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN to support terminal devices. The problem addressed is the need for secure and efficient communication of terminal-specific parameters between RANs to facilitate seamless handover or auxiliary network assistance. The method involves an anchor RAN, which serves as the primary network for a terminal, coordinating with an auxiliary RAN to provide additional network resources or services. The anchor RAN sends at least one of the following to the auxiliary RAN: an encrypted parameter to ensure secure transmission of sensitive data, radio access capability information of the terminal to enable the auxiliary RAN to optimize its configuration for the terminal, or an already assigned radio link control (RLC) layer parameter to maintain consistent communication settings across both networks. This exchange allows the auxiliary RAN to efficiently support the terminal without requiring redundant signaling or configuration steps, improving handover reliability and reducing latency. The method ensures that the terminal's communication remains secure and optimized as it transitions between or utilizes multiple RANs.
6. An anchor radio access network (RAN) apparatus, comprising: a transmitter; a receiver; and a processor coupled to the transmitter and the receiver, with the processor being configured to establish a first connection with a terminal; wherein: the processor is configured to select an auxiliary RAN, and determine, a quality of service (QoS) parameter for the auxiliary RAN according to a QoS parameter allocated by a core network; the transmitter is configured to send the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN to the auxiliary RAN for establishing, according to the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN, a second connection between the auxiliary RAN and the terminal; the processor is configured to keep the first connection with the terminal; the receiver is configured to receive data packets from a core network; the receiver is configured to receive from the terminal, an establishment response message of the second connection; and the transmitter is configured to send the response message to the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving network efficiency and reliability by integrating an auxiliary radio access network (RAN) with an anchor RAN. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless data transmission while optimizing resource allocation in heterogeneous network environments. The anchor RAN apparatus includes a transmitter, a receiver, and a processor. The processor establishes a primary connection with a terminal and selects an auxiliary RAN to assist in data transmission. It determines a quality of service (QoS) parameter for the auxiliary RAN based on QoS parameters allocated by the core network. The transmitter sends this QoS parameter to the auxiliary RAN, which then establishes a secondary connection with the terminal. The anchor RAN maintains the primary connection while the auxiliary RAN handles additional data traffic. The receiver in the anchor RAN collects data packets from the core network and receives an establishment response message from the terminal regarding the secondary connection. The transmitter forwards this response to the auxiliary RAN, ensuring synchronization between the networks. This dual-connection approach enhances network capacity and reliability by dynamically distributing traffic between the anchor and auxiliary RANs while maintaining consistent QoS standards. The system is particularly useful in scenarios requiring high bandwidth or redundancy, such as dense urban deployments or mission-critical communications.
7. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein, the receiver is further configured to receive one or more third data packets from the terminal and one or more fourth data packets from the auxiliary RAN after the one or more fourth data packets having been transmitted by the terminal to the auxiliary RAN; the processor is further configured to combine the one or more third data packets and the one or more fourth data packets to obtain combined data packets; and the transmitter is further configured to transmit the combined data packets to the core network.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing data transmission efficiency in scenarios involving multiple radio access networks (RANs). The problem solved is the fragmentation of data packets when a terminal device communicates with both a primary RAN and an auxiliary RAN, leading to inefficiencies in data delivery to the core network. The apparatus includes a receiver, a processor, and a transmitter. The receiver is configured to receive data packets from both the terminal and the auxiliary RAN. Specifically, it receives third data packets directly from the terminal and fourth data packets from the auxiliary RAN, where the fourth data packets were originally transmitted by the terminal to the auxiliary RAN. The processor combines these third and fourth data packets into a single set of combined data packets. The transmitter then forwards these combined data packets to the core network, ensuring seamless and efficient data delivery. This approach optimizes data transmission by consolidating fragmented data streams from multiple RANs, reducing latency and improving reliability in heterogeneous network environments. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where a terminal device switches between or simultaneously connects to multiple RANs, such as in 5G non-standalone (NSA) deployments or multi-RAT (radio access technology) scenarios. The invention enhances data integrity and throughput by avoiding redundant or misordered packet transmissions.
8. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein, the transmitter and receiver are further configured to transmit and receive, respectively, fifth one or more data packets to and from the terminal through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity of the anchor RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data transmission efficiency in radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is optimizing data packet handling between a terminal and an anchor RAN node, particularly when the terminal is in a connected state but not actively transmitting or receiving data. The solution involves an apparatus with a transmitter and receiver configured to manage data packets through multiple protocol layers of the anchor RAN. The apparatus ensures seamless data transmission by routing packets through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock, a media access control (MAC) layer subblock, and a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN. This layered approach allows for efficient data convergence, error control, and physical layer transmission. The transmitter and receiver are further configured to handle additional data packets through these same protocol layers, ensuring consistent and reliable communication. The invention enhances data handling in wireless networks by maintaining protocol integrity across different RAN subblocks, improving overall system performance and user experience.
9. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the receiver is further configured to receive, before the processor selects the auxiliary RAN, a radio access bearer establishment request from the core network, wherein the radio access bearer establishment request carries the QoS parameter allocated by the core network.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving handover procedures between different radio access networks (RANs) to ensure quality of service (QoS) requirements are met. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable handover decisions when a user device transitions between different RANs, such as between 5G and LTE networks, while maintaining the QoS parameters assigned by the core network. The apparatus includes a receiver configured to obtain a radio access bearer establishment request from the core network before selecting an auxiliary RAN. This request carries QoS parameters allocated by the core network, which define performance requirements like latency, bandwidth, and reliability. The apparatus also includes a processor that selects an auxiliary RAN based on these QoS parameters, ensuring the selected RAN can meet the required service level. Additionally, the apparatus may include a transmitter to send a handover request to the selected auxiliary RAN, facilitating the transition while preserving the QoS guarantees. The invention further includes a memory to store the QoS parameters and a controller to manage the handover process. The apparatus may also determine whether the auxiliary RAN supports the required QoS before initiating the handover, ensuring seamless service continuity. This solution optimizes network resource utilization and enhances user experience by dynamically selecting the most suitable RAN based on real-time QoS requirements.
10. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein the transmitter is further configured to send at least one of an encrypted parameter, radio access capability information of the terminal in the auxiliary RAN, or an already assigned radio link control layer parameter to the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving interoperability between a primary radio access network (RAN) and an auxiliary RAN. The problem addressed is the efficient transfer of terminal-specific parameters between networks to ensure seamless connectivity and optimized performance when a terminal transitions between the primary and auxiliary RANs. The apparatus includes a transmitter configured to send at least one of an encrypted parameter, radio access capability information of the terminal in the auxiliary RAN, or an already assigned radio link control (RLC) layer parameter to the auxiliary RAN. The encrypted parameter ensures secure transmission of sensitive terminal data. The radio access capability information allows the auxiliary RAN to understand the terminal's supported features, enabling proper configuration. The RLC layer parameter ensures continuity of data transmission protocols, preventing disruptions during handover. The apparatus may also include a receiver to obtain terminal-specific information from the auxiliary RAN, such as radio resource management (RRM) parameters or mobility management (MM) parameters, which help optimize resource allocation and terminal mobility within the auxiliary RAN. Additionally, the apparatus may include a processor to generate or modify parameters based on the received information, ensuring compatibility and performance consistency across networks. This invention enhances interoperability by securely and efficiently exchanging terminal-specific parameters between RANs, reducing handover delays and improving overall network performance.
11. A method for implementing a convergence system of a plurality of radio access networks (RANs), comprising: establishing, by a terminal, a first connection with an anchor RAN; establishing, by the terminal, a second connection with an auxiliary RAN according to a quality of service (QoS) parameter for the auxiliary RAN wherein the auxiliary RAN is selected by the anchor RAN, and the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN is sent from the anchor RAN to the auxiliary RAN, wherein the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN is determined according to a QoS parameter allocated by a core network; keeping, by the terminal, the first connection with the anchor RAN after establishing the second connection between the auxiliary RAN and the terminal; and sending, by the terminal, an establishment response message of the second connection to the anchor RAN for sending the establishment response message to the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to a method for implementing a convergence system in a multi-RAN (Radio Access Network) environment. The problem addressed is the efficient management of connections between a terminal and multiple RANs to optimize network performance and resource utilization. The method involves a terminal establishing a primary connection with an anchor RAN, which acts as the main network interface. The terminal then establishes a secondary connection with an auxiliary RAN, selected by the anchor RAN, based on a quality of service (QoS) parameter provided by the anchor. This QoS parameter is derived from the QoS allocation determined by the core network. The terminal maintains the primary connection with the anchor RAN while the secondary connection with the auxiliary RAN is active. After establishing the secondary connection, the terminal sends an establishment response message to the anchor RAN, which forwards it to the auxiliary RAN. This approach ensures seamless integration and coordination between multiple RANs, improving network efficiency and service quality. The method leverages the core network's QoS allocation to dynamically configure auxiliary RANs, allowing flexible and adaptive network resource management.
12. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising: reporting, by the terminal, a measurement result of candidate RANs and/or radio access capability information of the terminal in the candidate RANs to the anchor RAN for selecting the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting an auxiliary radio access network (RAN) to assist an anchor RAN in serving a terminal. The problem addressed is efficiently determining the most suitable auxiliary RAN to enhance network performance, such as improving data rates or reducing latency, while minimizing signaling overhead and ensuring compatibility with the terminal's capabilities. The method involves a terminal measuring candidate RANs to assess their suitability as auxiliary networks. The terminal reports these measurement results, which may include signal quality metrics like signal strength or interference levels, to the anchor RAN. Additionally, the terminal provides its radio access capability information for each candidate RAN, detailing supported features or limitations (e.g., bandwidth, modulation schemes, or protocol versions). The anchor RAN uses this information to select the optimal auxiliary RAN, ensuring compatibility and performance benefits. This approach reduces the need for repeated measurements or excessive signaling between the terminal and multiple RANs, streamlining the selection process. The method is particularly useful in multi-RAN environments where seamless handover or coordinated multi-connectivity is desired.
13. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising: receiving, by the terminal, a configuring parameter of a link of the terminal at the auxiliary RAN from the anchor RAN, wherein the configuring parameter is obtained by the auxiliary RAN and is sent to the anchor RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing terminal connections in a multi-RAN (Radio Access Network) environment. The problem addressed is efficient configuration and handover of terminals between an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN to optimize network performance and resource utilization. The method involves a terminal connected to an anchor RAN that also has access to an auxiliary RAN. The terminal receives configuration parameters for a link to the auxiliary RAN from the anchor RAN. These parameters are obtained by the auxiliary RAN and forwarded to the anchor RAN before being transmitted to the terminal. This allows the terminal to establish or maintain a connection with the auxiliary RAN based on the received configuration, enabling seamless communication and resource sharing between the two RANs. The method ensures that the terminal can dynamically adjust its connectivity based on network conditions, improving efficiency and reliability in heterogeneous network environments. The configuration parameters may include settings for radio resources, quality of service, or other link-specific attributes necessary for proper operation with the auxiliary RAN. This approach reduces signaling overhead and enhances coordination between RANs, particularly in scenarios where the terminal needs to utilize resources from multiple networks simultaneously.
14. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising: transmitting and receiving, by the terminal, a third one or more data packets to and from the anchor RAN, respectively, through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity of the anchor RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN; and transmitting and receiving a fourth one or more data packets to and from the auxiliary anther RAN, respectively, through a PDCP module of the auxiliary RAN, through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing data packet transmission and reception between a terminal and multiple radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is efficient data handling in scenarios where a terminal communicates with both an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN, ensuring seamless data flow across different network layers. The method involves transmitting and receiving data packets between a terminal and an anchor RAN through multiple protocol layers. The anchor RAN processes data via a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, followed by radio link control (RLC) layer subblocks, media access control (MAC) layer subblocks, and physical (PHY) layer subblocks. Similarly, the terminal exchanges data packets with an auxiliary RAN through corresponding PDCP, RLC, MAC, and PHY layers in the auxiliary RAN. This dual-path communication ensures redundancy and load balancing, improving reliability and performance in heterogeneous network environments. The method optimizes data transmission by leveraging both RANs, enhancing overall system efficiency and user experience.
15. A terminal, comprising: a processor configured to: establish a first connection with an anchor radio access network (RAN); establish a second connection with an auxiliary RAN according to a quality of service (QoS) parameter for the auxiliary RAN, wherein the auxiliary RAN is selected by the anchor RAN and the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN is sent from the anchor RAN to the auxiliary RAN, wherein the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN is determined according to a QoS parameter allocated by a core network; keep the first connection with the anchor RAN after establishing the second connection with the auxiliary RAN; and cause an establishment response message of the second connection to be sent to the anchor RAN for sending the establishment response message to the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing multiple radio access network (RAN) connections for a terminal device to ensure reliable and high-quality service. The terminal includes a processor that establishes a primary connection with an anchor RAN, which serves as the main network interface. Additionally, the processor establishes a secondary connection with an auxiliary RAN based on a quality of service (QoS) parameter provided by the anchor RAN. The anchor RAN selects the auxiliary RAN and forwards the QoS parameter, which is derived from the QoS allocation determined by the core network. The terminal maintains the primary connection with the anchor RAN even after the secondary connection with the auxiliary RAN is established. The processor also ensures that an establishment response message for the secondary connection is sent to the anchor RAN, which then forwards it to the auxiliary RAN. This approach enables seamless integration of multiple RANs to enhance network performance and service reliability for the terminal.
16. The terminal according to claim 15 , further comprising: a transmitter configured to report a measurement result of candidate RANs and/or radio access capability information of the terminal in the candidate RANs to the anchor RAN for selecting the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to a terminal device configured to support multi-RAN (Radio Access Network) connectivity. The problem addressed is the efficient selection of an auxiliary RAN to assist an anchor RAN in providing seamless connectivity to a terminal, particularly in scenarios where the terminal may need to switch between different RANs for improved performance or coverage. The terminal includes a transmitter configured to report measurement results of candidate RANs to an anchor RAN. These measurements may include signal strength, quality, or other performance metrics of the candidate RANs. Additionally, the terminal reports its radio access capability information in the candidate RANs, which may include supported frequency bands, modulation schemes, or other technical specifications. This information allows the anchor RAN to select an optimal auxiliary RAN for assisting the terminal, ensuring efficient resource allocation and minimizing handover delays. The terminal may also include a receiver to receive control signals from the anchor RAN, enabling dynamic adjustments based on the reported measurements and capabilities. The overall system aims to enhance network efficiency and user experience by leveraging multi-RAN coordination.
17. The terminal according to claim 15 , further comprising a receiver configured to receive a configuring parameter of a link of the terminal at the auxiliary RAN from the anchor RAN, wherein the configuring parameter is obtained by the auxiliary RAN and is sent to the anchor RAN.
A wireless communication terminal is configured to operate in a multi-RAN (Radio Access Network) environment where an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN collaborate to manage the terminal's connectivity. The terminal includes a receiver that obtains a configuring parameter for a link between the terminal and the auxiliary RAN. This parameter is generated by the auxiliary RAN and transmitted to the anchor RAN before being relayed to the terminal. The configuring parameter may include settings for link establishment, optimization, or maintenance, ensuring efficient communication between the terminal and the auxiliary RAN. The terminal adjusts its operations based on this parameter to maintain stable and high-performance connectivity in the multi-RAN setup. This approach improves resource utilization and reduces handover delays by dynamically configuring links between the terminal and the auxiliary RAN through the anchor RAN. The system is particularly useful in scenarios where seamless mobility and efficient spectrum usage are required, such as in heterogeneous network deployments.
18. The terminal according to claim 15 , further comprising a receiver configured to: receive a third one or more data packets to and from the anchor RAN through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity of the anchor RAN; and receive a fourth one or more data packets from the auxiliary RAN through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through a PDCP entity of the auxiliary RAN.
A wireless terminal is configured to communicate with both an anchor radio access network (RAN) and an auxiliary RAN to improve data transmission reliability and efficiency. The terminal includes a receiver that processes data packets from the anchor RAN through multiple protocol layers: the physical (PHY) layer, media access control (MAC) layer, radio link control (RLC) layer, and packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity. Similarly, the terminal receives data packets from the auxiliary RAN through its respective PHY, MAC, RLC, and PDCP layers. This dual-path communication allows the terminal to leverage both networks for redundant data transmission, enhancing robustness and throughput. The system addresses challenges in wireless communication, such as signal interference, network congestion, and coverage gaps, by utilizing multiple RANs to ensure seamless and reliable data exchange. The terminal's ability to handle data packets from both networks at different protocol layers ensures compatibility and efficient integration with existing wireless infrastructure. This approach improves overall network performance and user experience in dynamic wireless environments.
19. The method according claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the anchor RAN, data packets from a core network; splitting, by the anchor RAN, the data packets into one or more first data packets and one or more second data packets; and transmitting, by the anchor RAN, the one or more first data packets to the terminal and the one or more second data packets to the auxiliary RAN for sending to the terminal.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for improving data transmission efficiency in radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is the need to optimize data delivery to terminals, particularly in scenarios where multiple RAN nodes are involved. The solution involves an anchor RAN node that receives data packets from a core network and intelligently splits them into two subsets. The first subset of data packets is transmitted directly to the terminal, while the second subset is forwarded to an auxiliary RAN node, which then relays those packets to the terminal. This splitting mechanism allows for load balancing, reduced latency, and improved resource utilization by leveraging multiple RAN nodes. The anchor RAN dynamically determines how to partition the data packets, ensuring efficient distribution based on network conditions, terminal capabilities, or other operational factors. The auxiliary RAN node acts as an intermediary, receiving the second subset of packets and transmitting them to the terminal, effectively extending the coverage or capacity of the anchor RAN. This approach enhances overall network performance by distributing the data transmission workload across multiple RAN nodes, reducing congestion and improving reliability.
20. The method according to claim 19 , wherein: the transmitting the one or more first data packets to the terminal comprises transmitting, by the anchor RAN, the one or more first data packets to the terminal through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN; and the transmitting the one or more second data packets to the auxiliary RAN comprises transmitting, by the anchor RAN, the one or more second data packets through the PDCP entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN, to the auxiliary RAN for sending to the terminal through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN.
In wireless communication systems, efficient data transmission between a terminal and multiple radio access networks (RANs) is critical for maintaining reliable connectivity. A method addresses this by optimizing data routing between an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN. The anchor RAN transmits first data packets directly to the terminal through a shared packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, which is utilized by both the anchor and auxiliary RANs. These packets traverse the anchor RAN's radio link control (RLC), media access control (MAC), and physical (PHY) layer subblocks before reaching the terminal. Simultaneously, the anchor RAN sends second data packets through the same shared PDCP entity to the auxiliary RAN. The auxiliary RAN then forwards these packets to the terminal via its own RLC, MAC, and PHY layer subblocks. This dual-path transmission ensures seamless data delivery while leveraging shared protocol layers to reduce complexity and improve efficiency in multi-RAN environments. The approach enhances coordination between RANs, minimizing latency and resource overhead in heterogeneous network deployments.
21. The method according to claim 20 , wherein the PDCP entity is configured on the anchor RAN.
A method for managing protocol data convergence protocol (PDCP) entities in a wireless communication system addresses the challenge of efficiently handling data transmission between user equipment (UE) and a radio access network (RAN) during mobility events. The method involves configuring a PDCP entity on an anchor RAN node, which serves as a stable reference point for the UE during handover or mobility procedures. The PDCP entity is responsible for tasks such as data compression, encryption, and sequence numbering to ensure reliable and secure data transfer. By anchoring the PDCP entity on the RAN, the method reduces latency and improves data integrity during transitions between different RAN nodes. This approach minimizes service interruptions and enhances the overall user experience by maintaining consistent data handling across mobility events. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where seamless connectivity is critical, such as in high-mobility environments or applications requiring low-latency communication. The configuration of the PDCP entity on the anchor RAN ensures that data processing remains centralized and synchronized, even as the UE moves between different network segments. This solution optimizes resource utilization and reduces the complexity of managing multiple PDCP entities across different RAN nodes.
22. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the determining, by the anchor RAN, the QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN according to the QoS parameter allocated by the core network comprises: determining, by the anchor RAN, a first QoS parameter assigned to the anchor RAN and a second QoS parameter assigned to the auxiliary RAN from the QoS parameter allocated by the core network, wherein the first QoS parameter is different from or identical with the second QoS parameter.
In wireless communication systems, managing quality of service (QoS) across multiple radio access networks (RANs) is critical for ensuring consistent performance. When a user device connects to an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN simultaneously, the core network allocates a QoS parameter to support the connection. However, distributing this QoS parameter between the anchor and auxiliary RANs can be challenging, as improper allocation may lead to performance degradation or resource inefficiency. This invention addresses this issue by enabling the anchor RAN to determine a first QoS parameter for itself and a second QoS parameter for the auxiliary RAN from the QoS parameter allocated by the core network. The first and second QoS parameters may be identical or different, allowing flexible allocation based on network conditions, device requirements, or operator policies. This ensures that both RANs can effectively support the user device's communication needs while optimizing resource utilization. The method supports seamless integration with existing core network QoS allocation mechanisms, enhancing overall network efficiency and service quality.
23. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the anchor RAN, a configuring parameter from the auxiliary RAN; transmitting, by the anchor RAN, the configuring parameter to the terminal for establishing the second connection.
In wireless communication systems, particularly in scenarios involving multiple radio access networks (RANs), efficient coordination between anchor and auxiliary RANs is critical for seamless connectivity. A technical solution addresses the challenge of dynamically configuring connections between a terminal and auxiliary RANs to optimize performance and resource utilization. The method involves an anchor RAN receiving a configuring parameter from an auxiliary RAN, which defines the parameters needed to establish a secondary connection between the terminal and the auxiliary RAN. The anchor RAN then transmits this configuring parameter to the terminal, enabling the terminal to establish the second connection with the auxiliary RAN. This process ensures that the terminal can efficiently utilize resources from both the anchor and auxiliary RANs, improving overall network performance and reliability. The solution enhances flexibility in network management by allowing dynamic adjustments based on real-time conditions, such as load balancing or signal quality, without requiring manual intervention. By automating the configuration process, the method reduces latency and improves the user experience in heterogeneous network environments. The approach is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple RANs operate in close proximity, such as in urban areas or dense deployments, where efficient resource allocation is essential.
24. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the anchor RAN employs an accessing technique different from the auxiliary RAN.
In wireless communication systems, seamless mobility and efficient resource utilization are critical challenges, particularly when integrating multiple radio access networks (RANs) with different access technologies. The invention addresses these challenges by enabling an anchor RAN to employ an accessing technique distinct from that of an auxiliary RAN, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance during handover or multi-RAN operation. The anchor RAN, which serves as the primary connection point for a user device, may use a different radio access technology (e.g., 5G NR, LTE, or Wi-Fi) compared to the auxiliary RAN, which provides supplementary coverage or capacity. This differentiation allows the system to leverage the strengths of each RAN type while maintaining stable connectivity. The method involves dynamically selecting or configuring the anchor and auxiliary RANs based on factors such as signal strength, load balancing, or service requirements, ensuring efficient resource allocation and reduced latency. By supporting diverse accessing techniques, the invention enhances flexibility in network deployment and improves user experience across heterogeneous RAN environments. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where legacy and next-generation RANs coexist, enabling smooth transitions and improved spectral efficiency.
25. The apparatus according to claim 6 , wherein: the processor is configured to split the data packets into one or more first data packets and one or more second data packets; and the transmitter is configured to transmit the one or more first data packets to the terminal and the one or more second data packets to the auxiliary RAN for sending to the terminal.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data transmission efficiency in scenarios where a terminal is served by both a primary radio access network (RAN) and an auxiliary RAN. The problem addressed is optimizing data delivery when the terminal is in a coverage area where both networks are available, ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission. The apparatus includes a processor and a transmitter. The processor is configured to split incoming data packets into two groups: one or more first data packets and one or more second data packets. The transmitter then sends the first data packets directly to the terminal via the primary RAN, while the second data packets are transmitted to the auxiliary RAN for subsequent delivery to the terminal. This dual-path transmission leverages the strengths of both networks, improving overall data throughput and reliability. The splitting mechanism may be based on factors such as network conditions, packet priority, or load balancing requirements. The auxiliary RAN may operate on a different frequency band or use a different wireless technology, such as a secondary cellular network or a local Wi-Fi network, to complement the primary RAN. This approach enhances data delivery performance in heterogeneous network environments.
26. The apparatus according to claim 25 , wherein: the transmitter is further configured to transmit the one or more first data packets to the terminal through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN; and the transmitter is further configured to transmit the one or more second data packets through the PDCP entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN for sending to the terminal through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses for transmitting data packets from a network to a terminal using multiple radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is efficient data transmission in scenarios where a terminal is served by both an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN, ensuring seamless data delivery while minimizing redundancy and complexity. The apparatus includes a transmitter configured to send data packets to the terminal through a shared packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, which is commonly used by both the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN. The transmitter sends first data packets via the PDCP entity through the radio link control (RLC), media access control (MAC), and physical (PHY) layer subblocks of the anchor RAN. Simultaneously, second data packets are transmitted through the same PDCP entity but routed through the RLC, MAC, and PHY layer subblocks of the auxiliary RAN. This dual-path transmission leverages both RANs to improve data throughput and reliability while maintaining a single PDCP layer for efficient protocol handling. The apparatus ensures that data packets are correctly delivered to the terminal regardless of which RAN subblocks are used for transmission, optimizing resource utilization and reducing latency.
27. The apparatus according to claim 26 , wherein the PDCP entity is configured on the anchor RAN.
The invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the configuration and operation of Protocol Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) entities in radio access networks (RANs). The problem being solved involves optimizing data transmission efficiency and reliability in scenarios where a user equipment (UE) is served by multiple RAN nodes, particularly during mobility events or handover procedures. The apparatus includes a PDCP entity configured on an anchor RAN node, which serves as a stable reference point for the UE's communication session. The anchor RAN node maintains the PDCP entity to handle data encryption, integrity protection, and sequence numbering, ensuring seamless data transmission even when the UE transitions between different RAN nodes. This configuration reduces the need for frequent PDCP re-establishment, minimizing service interruptions and improving overall system performance. The PDCP entity on the anchor RAN node may also manage data retransmission and in-order delivery, further enhancing reliability. The apparatus may also include additional RAN nodes that assist in data forwarding or local processing while the anchor RAN node retains control of the PDCP layer functions. This architecture is particularly useful in 5G and beyond networks where mobility and data consistency are critical.
28. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising: receiving, by the terminal, one or more first data packets from the anchor RAN and one or more second data packets from the auxiliary RAN, wherein the one or more second data packets are received by the auxiliary RAN from the anchor RAN, wherein data packets from a core network are split by the anchor RAN into the one or more first data packets and the one or more second data packets.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing data transmission between a terminal and a core network using multiple radio access networks (RANs). The problem addressed is efficient data handling in scenarios where a terminal is connected to both an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN, requiring coordinated data distribution to optimize performance and resource utilization. The method involves receiving data packets at a terminal from both the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN. The anchor RAN splits data packets from the core network into two sets: first data packets transmitted directly to the terminal and second data packets forwarded to the auxiliary RAN, which then relays them to the terminal. This splitting mechanism allows for load balancing and improved data throughput by leveraging multiple RAN connections. The auxiliary RAN acts as an intermediary, receiving the second data packets from the anchor RAN and transmitting them to the terminal, ensuring seamless data delivery. This approach enhances network efficiency by distributing the data traffic between the anchor and auxiliary RANs, reducing congestion and improving overall communication reliability. The method is particularly useful in heterogeneous network environments where multiple RANs are available to support a single terminal.
29. The method according to claim 28 , wherein: the receiving the one or more first data packets from the anchor RAN comprises receiving, by the terminal, the one or more first data packets from the anchor RAN through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, through a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and through a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN; and the receiving the one or more second data packets from the auxiliary RAN comprises receiving, by the terminal, the one or more second data packets from the auxiliary RAN through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through the PDCP entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN.
In wireless communication systems, terminals often rely on multiple radio access networks (RANs) to maintain connectivity and improve performance. A key challenge is efficiently managing data transmission between a terminal and multiple RANs, particularly when data packets are received from both an anchor RAN and an auxiliary RAN. This invention addresses this challenge by optimizing the data reception process at the terminal. The method involves receiving data packets from both the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN, with each RAN transmitting its respective data packets through multiple protocol layers. For the anchor RAN, the terminal receives data packets through the physical (PHY) layer, media access control (MAC) layer, radio link control (RLC) layer, and a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity. Similarly, the terminal receives data packets from the auxiliary RAN through its PHY, MAC, and RLC layers, also utilizing the same PDCP entity shared with the anchor RAN. This shared PDCP entity ensures seamless data convergence and processing, reducing redundancy and improving efficiency in multi-RAN communication scenarios. The approach enhances data transmission reliability and performance by leveraging a common PDCP layer across both RANs.
30. The terminal according to claim 15 , further comprising: a receiver coupled to the processor, with the receiver configured to receive one or more first data packets from the anchor RAN and receive one or more second data packets from the auxiliary RAN, wherein the auxiliary RAN receives the one or more second data packets from the anchor RAN, wherein data packets from a core network are split by the anchor RAN into the one or more first data packets and the one or more second data packets.
A wireless terminal is configured to communicate with both an anchor radio access network (RAN) and an auxiliary RAN, where the anchor RAN splits data packets from a core network into multiple subsets. The terminal includes a processor and a receiver coupled to the processor. The receiver is designed to receive first data packets directly from the anchor RAN and second data packets from the auxiliary RAN, which in turn receives the second data packets from the anchor RAN. The anchor RAN performs the splitting of data packets from the core network into the first and second subsets before transmission. This setup allows for load balancing or redundancy in data transmission, improving reliability and efficiency in wireless communication systems. The terminal processes the received data packets to reconstruct the original data stream from the core network. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple RANs are available to enhance network performance and coverage.
31. The terminal according to claim 30 , wherein: the receiver is configured to receive the one or more first data packets from the anchor RAN through a physical (PHY) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, a media access control (MAC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock of the anchor RAN, and a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN; and the receiver is configured to receive the one or more second data packets from the auxiliary RAN through a PHY layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a MAC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, through a RLC layer subblock of the auxiliary RAN, and through the PDCP entity, with the PCDP entity being commonly used by the anchor RAN and the auxiliary RAN.
A wireless communication terminal is designed to receive data packets from both an anchor radio access network (RAN) and an auxiliary RAN, where the terminal shares a common packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) entity between the two RANs. The terminal includes a receiver that processes data packets from the anchor RAN through a physical (PHY) layer subblock, a media access control (MAC) layer subblock, a radio link control (RLC) layer subblock, and the shared PDCP entity. Similarly, the receiver processes data packets from the auxiliary RAN through its own PHY, MAC, and RLC subblocks before reaching the same shared PDCP entity. This shared PDCP layer ensures efficient data handling and synchronization between the anchor and auxiliary RANs, reducing redundancy and improving communication reliability. The terminal's architecture supports seamless data transmission and reception across multiple RANs while maintaining a unified protocol layer for consistent data processing. This design is particularly useful in scenarios requiring dual connectivity, such as in 5G networks, where multiple RANs collaborate to enhance coverage and capacity.
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February 4, 2020
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